A grand jury has concluded the investigation into the death of Nolan Wells, an 18-year-old who went missing on Horn Island, Mississippi during the Fourth of July celebrations. Wells was found dead days after he disappeared, sparking widespread speculation on social media. The jury determined there was no criminal misconduct involved in his death.
The jury’s report dismissed claims against the occupants of the boats Triton, Palm Beach, and Tideline, which were involved in ferrying people to and from Horn Island on July 4th. These allegations were deemed baseless and the result of public speculation.
Jackson County District Attorney Angel Myers McIlrath emphasized the importance of clearing individuals falsely accused, stating in a video message, “There is absolutely no evidence to support the allegations that Nolan’s disappearance and death were racially motivated. Nolan’s friends loved Nolan, and Nolan loved them.”
“Nolan’s friends have stated that he remained on Horn Island to converse with a girl, informing them of his plan to return later,” McIlrath added. Wells did not return with his friends and was last seen on the island around 3 p.m. His mother reported him missing the night of July 4th.
Wells’ body was discovered on July 6 off the coast of Horn Island. An independent autopsy commissioned by his family failed to determine the cause of death. The grand jury found the condition and discovery of Wells’ body were consistent with drowning.
Wells’ parents, Christine and Elmore Wonsley, expressed disbelief that their son would stay behind alone, highlighting that Nolan typically stayed with his group of friends. “If you be with me, you come back with me,” Elmore Wonsley said. “That I don’t understand,” he told “CBS Mornings.”
Attorney Ben Crump, representing the family, pointed out discrepancies in the various accounts of what happened, adding to the public interest and speculation around the case. “There are so many glaring contradictions,” Crump told “CBS Mornings.”
The grand jury reported that all individuals involved in the investigation cooperated fully, providing GPS devices, surveillance footage, cell phones, and statements to authorities and Nolan’s family.
The jury also noted that it is common for visitors to remain on Horn Island during busy holidays, indicating Wells might have chosen to do the same. The investigation involved 23 jurors representing a cross-section of Jackson County citizens.
Mark Osborne contributed further details to this report.